Kamal Ghorui
There’s no denying that in most traditional Indian households, an evening Arti followed by burning incense sticks (Agarbatti or Dhoop) and wafting the fragrance and smoke throughout the house is a daily ritual. While most of us grew up watching this tradition, little do we know that this daily ritual holds a profound relevance in the Vedic traditions and in the books of astrology. Here’s all you need to know about it…
Why is burning incense a daily ritual?
According to Hindu tradition as well as Vedic astrology, burning dhoop or incense sticks during puja or aarti is believed to cleanse the aura of the house and to bring in divine blessing and positivity into the house. This age-old tradition is deeply rooted in ancient Vastu Shastra. It is believed that doing this can purify the energy of the house, honor the deities, and align the positivity of the living spaces with Vastu Shastra principles that attract peace, happiness, health and harmony.
Historical and cultural roots
Interestingly, the history of burning and wafting incense sticks during the Sandhya arti can be traced back to the Vedic times, wherein the fragrant smoke from natural resins, herbs, flowers and sandalwood was offered during holy “Yajnas” to invoke divine blessings. This tradition was passed on through generations, and even today in most Hindu households this ritual is performed during the dusk, also known as Sandhya (vela) arti or evening puja, symbolizing the transition from day to night and warding off negative energies as per traditional beliefs. This ritual fosters unity and harmony in the family, and it is best to perform this ritual with members of the family durig the arti and lighting of the incense stick or dhoop; it is believed that doing that will strengthen the bond and bring in divine blessings.
Vastu benefits
According to the books of Vastu Shastra, it is believed that burning incense sticks and dhoop in the evening can activate positive vibrations, neutralize stagnant energy, and clear doshas, or Vastu defects, in the home. The rising smoke is believed to balance the five elements that are earth, water, fire, air, and space, which helps in enhancing the Northeast direction (Ishaan Kon), which is believed to be the sacred zone of the home and is ideal for pooja. Lighting incense in this direction can attract wealth and peace, as it helps purify air, removes subtle negativity and brings in positive prana flow, preventing financial or emotional discord when done regularly.
